By Steve El Sabai
Youth unemployment has emerged as one of the most pressing socio-economic challenges facing Puntland, with growing calls for targeted interventions to create sustainable opportunities for the region’s expanding young population.
As policymakers, business leaders and development stakeholders intensify discussions on economic growth and recovery, attention is increasingly turning to the role of young people in shaping Puntland’s future. Many believe that unlocking the potential of the youth population will be critical to achieving long-term prosperity and social stability.
Speaking on the issue, Deeq Hassan Mohamed, popularly known as Deeq Darajo and serving as spokesperson of the Puntland Democratic Party (PDP), described young people as Puntland’s greatest asset and a key driver of future development. He emphasized the need for increased investment in education, vocational training and entrepreneurship programmes to equip young people with the skills required in a rapidly changing economy.
According to Deeq Hassan Mohamed, the challenge of unemployment extends beyond economics, carrying significant social implications if left unaddressed. He noted that meaningful economic inclusion is essential in ensuring that young people remain engaged in productive activities while contributing positively to community development and civic life.
He further stressed that creating opportunities for youth should remain a priority for both public and private sector actors, noting that a coordinated approach is necessary to stimulate growth and generate employment across various sectors of the economy.
The Puntland Democratic Party has also reiterated its support for policies aimed at strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises, encouraging youth-led innovation and expanding private sector participation. The party believes that empowering entrepreneurs and creating a conducive business environment will play a crucial role in addressing unemployment while stimulating economic growth.
The party further called for stronger cooperation between government institutions, investors and international development partners to accelerate economic recovery and create sustainable employment opportunities for young people. It noted that such partnerships are essential in mobilizing resources, attracting investment and supporting long-term economic transformation.
As Puntland continues to pursue its development agenda, the issue of youth unemployment remains at the forefront of public discourse. The Puntland Democratic Party maintains that investing in young people is not only an economic necessity but also a strategic imperative for securing lasting stability, prosperity and inclusive growth across the region.
